The testes make the same or slightly less of the male hormone called testosterone.

The testicles decrease in size.

The tubes that drain the testes become less elastic.

Again, these are all considered normal with increasing age. Other conditions are more common in the older age group but are not normal. Erectile dysfunction is not considered normal at any age. It can be caused by:

Many men have a gradual decrease in their sex drive with age. Sexual responses may also become slower and less intense. However, a total lack of interest in sex is often a sign of underlying problems. Sometimes these problems relate to social changes. Medical conditions such as depression and rarely even cancer are also possible causes.

The normal changes in the prostate gland with age may cause problems. An enlarged prostate gland increases the risk of:

a backup of urine into the bladder and kidneys, which can sometimes cause kidney damage or failure

Prostate cancer is very common as men get older. It is the most frequent cause of cancer in men. It is often treatable and very slow growing. Because it is so common, however, it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Cancer of the testicles is also possible, though more commonly seen in younger men.

Though these issues may not be easy to talk about, they can affect health. Treatment is available for conditions such as an enlarged prostate or impotence. A healthcare provider should be consulted if there are any concerns.